Dereck Lively II to miss Mavericks preseason due to foot injury

Dallas Mavericks center Dereck Lively II will not be cleared to participate in the team’s preseason training camp as he continues to recover from right foot surgery. His recovery has not progressed sufficiently to allow for contact practices, leaving his return date uncertain.

Lively, a former first-round pick from Duke, has been a key defensive component for the Mavericks. His absence creates uncertainty regarding the team's rotation and defensive identity heading into the regular season. While he is making progress, the lack of a confirmed timeline means he may even miss the start of the regular season on October 21.

This injury follows a pattern of availability issues for the player, who has missed 148 games during his career. The Mavericks appear to be taking a cautious approach to his rehabilitation to avoid the risk of a relapse or further complications.